A probable case of an overwintering adult Sympetrum striolatum (Charp.) in western Cyprus (Anisoptera: Libellulidae)

On llth March, 1989, whilst examining a tributary of the Stavros Psokos River in western Cyprus, my wife and I were surprised to observe a single female Sympetrum striolatum ovipositing. The site chosen was a tiny feeder stream draining into the main tributary, situated approx. 6 km West of the village of Stavros, Troodos Massif (alt. approx. 250 m). Upon capture, the discoloured, heavily pruinosed appearance and the torn apex of each wing, clearly indicated that the insect was of considerable age. Coupled with the early date, this very strongly suggested to us that it had probably emerged the previous season, having survived the short Cyprus winter. Despite many hours spent at the locality, this specimen was the only dragonfly seen.